Two drivers flee police checkpoints in Rotorua

Police checkpoints are focusing on alcohol, restraints, fatigue and visiting drivers. Photo/File

A driver who failed to stop at a Rotorua checkpoint sparked a police chase which ended with him ditching his car.

As part of their Summer Road Policing Plan police are carrying out checkpoints across the area with a focus on alcohol, restraints, fatigue and visiting drivers.

Officer in charge of road policing Rotorua Acting Senior Sergeant Jamie Keenleyside said police would reinforce safer speed messages and encourage vigilance by motorists around wearing seatbelts.

About 8.55am today a driver failed to stop at a checkpoint on Old Taupo Rd.

Police chased the vehicle, but the car was ditched and has been impounded. The driver has not been found and police are making inquiries, a police media spokeswoman said.

A second driver also allegedly failed to stop on Homedale St at 11.54am.

"Today a motorist was signalled by police to stop at a checkpoint but drove off and attempted to evade police. The vehicle was located a short time later and the driver was dealt with in relation to his driving and other matters," Mr Keenleyside said.

He said no charges had been laid but the driver was in custody.

Mr Keenleyside said the checkpoints would be in several different places throughout the region.

"We designate our checkpoints to areas where there are high crime rates."

Despite today's incidents, he said most people at checkpoints had been good.

"They like to see us out and about. We just want to get the message out there to drive safe."